University Scientists Reverse Roles to Support National Foundation

Alex's Lemonade Stand Aids Childhood Cancer Research

Danielle Benoit, Ph.D. is accustomed to receiving funding from foundations to support the research in her Therapeutic Biomaterials Lab. But this weekend, Benoit and her students will be the ones raising funds for a foundation.

Benoit, an assistant professor of biomedical engineering, and her fellow researchers will be stepping out of the lab to staff a pair of lemonade stands (details below), with the proceeds going to the national Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation. It's their way of giving back to an organization that has helped with their research into childhood cancer therapies.

"Most people don't realize that treating cancer in children is much different from treating cancer in adults," said Benoit. "At the same time, funding for childhood cancer research is woefully miniscule, compared to the money that goes into studying adult cancers."

The name, Alex's Lemonade Stand, comes from Alexandra "Alex" Scott of Connecticut, a four-year-old girl who was diagnosed with cancer before her first birthday. Alex set up lemonade stands every year before her death at age eight to raise money so that doctors could find a cure for cancer, the leading cause of death for children 15 and younger. The idea spread, and children in other parts of the country set up their own lemonade stands to join the cause.

About the University of Rochester

The University of Rochester (www.rochester.edu) is one of the nation's leading private universities. Located in Rochester, N.Y., the University gives students exceptional opportunities for interdisciplinary study and close collaboration with faculty through its unique cluster-based curriculum. Its College of Arts, Sciences, and Engineering is complemented by the Eastman School of Music, Simon School of Business, Warner School of Education, Laboratory for Laser Energetics, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, and the Memorial Art Gallery.